Why Does an Ultrasound Matter if I’m Considering Abortion?

Why Does an Ultrasound Matter if I’m Considering Abortion?

If you’re considering abortion, you may be eager to move forward after seeing a positive pregnancy test. However, the test result only tells you one thing: that pregnancy hormones are present. It doesn’t provide the information needed to fully understand if abortion is an option for you.

Before making any decision, it’s important to learn about your pregnancy. First Concern PRC offers free pregnancy testing and on-site ultrasound referrals so you can get the information you need before making this important decision. 

Schedule your confidential appointment to learn more.

A Pregnancy Test Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story

Home pregnancy tests detect the hormone hCG, but they can’t answer several important medical questions.

An ultrasound can determine whether the pregnancy appears to be developing, estimate how far along you are, and confirm that the pregnancy is located in the uterus. These details provide a clearer picture of your health and may affect your medical treatment.

As many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, and it’s possible to receive a positive result for some time afterward. It takes time for any hCG in your body to return to pre-pregnancy levels, and receiving an ultrasound can pinpoint what is going on and help you receive medical follow-up as needed.

It Can Identify a Serious Medical Condition

Not every pregnancy develops inside the uterus.

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. Because the pregnancy cannot continue normally, it requires immediate medical treatment. Left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can become life-threatening.

An abortion does not treat an ectopic pregnancy, which is one reason an ultrasound is an important step before pursuing an abortion.

Knowing How Far Along You Are Matters

Many women estimate how far along they are based on the first day of their last menstrual period. While this can provide a general estimate, it isn’t always accurate, especially if your menstrual cycles are irregular.

An ultrasound offers a more reliable estimate of gestational age. This information is important because different abortion procedures are used at different stages of pregnancy, and the abortion pill is FDA-approved only through 10 weeks of pregnancy.

Taking time to gather accurate medical information doesn’t commit you to any particular pregnancy decision, but it does help you understand your pregnancy before moving forward.

Get Answers Before You Decide

You deserve to understand your pregnancy before making a decision that could affect your health.

At First Concern PRC, we provide free information about your pregnancy in a confidential setting. Reach out today to schedule your appointment and get the answers you’re looking for.

First Concern PRC does not provide or refer for abortions.

All abortion information in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.